Tom O'Brien, a decorated jockey who rode more than 1,000 winners over jumps during a distinguished 20-year career, has died at the age of 39. The Irishman, who retired from race riding in April 2023, had been battling cancer.
O'Brien achieved five Grade One victories throughout his time in the saddle. His most notable successes included riding Thyme Hill to victory in the Liverpool Hurdle at Aintree in 2021 and the Kauto Star Novices' Chase at Kempton in 2022.
A long-time fixture at Philip Hobbs' stable near Minehead, O'Brien also enjoyed significant success at the Cheltenham Festival, winning the Fred Winter Handicap Hurdle in 2009 and the Pertemps Final in 2022. He also famously partnered Dream Alliance to win the 2009 Welsh Grand National.
Reflecting on his career, trainer Philip Hobbs said that O'Brien arrived at his yard as a teenager and remained a reliable and talented presence until his retirement. Hobbs noted that he had kept in touch with the jockey, who visited the yard just three weeks ago.
Following his retirement from racing, O'Brien joined the British Horseracing Authority’s stewarding team. Brant Dunshea, the BHA chief executive, described the loss as devastating, stating that O'Brien was held in the highest esteem across the sport for his kindness and friendship.
Tributes have poured in from across the racing community, with colleagues and trainers remembering him as a brilliant jockey and a devoted family man. O'Brien is survived by his wife, Hayley, and their two sons.
The racing industry continues to mourn the loss of a figure described by peers as a humble and talented professional. Support is being coordinated for his family during this difficult period as the sport remembers his contributions to the track.
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